Salient Features of Initial Govt. Lokpal Bill

The Jan Lokpal Bill, also referred to as the citizens’ ombudsman bill, is a proposed independent anti-corruption law in India. Anti-corruption social activists proposed it as a more effective improvement to the original Lokpal bill, which is currently being proposed by the Government of India.

Below are some the Salient Features of Initial Govt. Lokpal Bill:

Lokpal can investigate Prime Minister only after he demist office.

Lokpal will have powers to investigate and prosecute all ministers, MPs and MLAs except on their conduct in their respective legislative bodies and all gazetted level government officials.

Seven-year time limit from date of offense mentioned for investigating a complaint.

Punishment for corruption by public servants increased from seven to ten years.

No recommendation can be made without hearing the public servant against whom complaint has been found to be true.

Respective ministers will decide whether to accept Lokpal recommendation or not against corrupt officials. Chairpersons of legislative bodies will decide in case of elected representative and PM in case of central ministers.

The bill provides up to two years punishment and up to Rs. 2 lakh fine for false or frivolous complaint. Public servant will also be able to seek compensation from the complaint.

The bill provides for mandatory declaration of assets by all public servants and their family members once a year and to be placed on public domain.

More about Jan Lok Pal Bill at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jan_Lokpal_Bill